Taking refuge has a very profound meaning, and Buddhist practitioners take refuge regularly in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha–but there is also a very special refuge ceremony.  In a refuge ceremony, you are formally becoming a Buddhist and creating a deep karmic link with the teacher.  You commit yourself to the path of love and compassion and to awakening the non-dualistic freedom that already exists within you.

If any member of the community would like to take refuge with Rinpoche, he has chosen an auspicious date:  Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 from 10-11am at the Dharma Center.   Please contact him in person or by phone at 831-917-3969 to make arrangements.   If that day does not work for you, alternative dates can be arranged.

Those who have already taken refuge may join the ceremony to renew their vows.

The meaning of taking refuge is very profound, and there are many layers.  Here are a few resources explaining the meaning of the refuge ceremony in Buddhism:
https://www.samyeling.org/buddhism-and-meditation/teaching-archive-2/choje-akong-tulku-rinpoche/the-meaning-of-taking-refuge/
https://www.lionsroar.com/the-decision-to-become-a-buddhist/

Taking refuge does involve certain specific commitments.  Here is a copy of the Refuge Vow Book Example that each person taking refuge with Rinpoche will receive.   The date & your Dharma name will be added in the back.

Questions?  Contact Rachel at [email protected].

Image: One of a Pair of Manuscript Covers from the Perfection of Wisdom Sutra (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita Sutra); Original public domain image from Art Institute of Chicago.